The actor's agent is fighting back after this weekend's announcement that his client will not be reprising his role as the green-skinned musclehead for Joss Whedon's upcoming superhero flick, The Avengers.

And, of course, the guessing game of who will land the role has already begun.

Marvel President of Production Kevin Feige said in a statement yesterday that the reason Norton wasn't cast is not because of financial reasons, "but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble." HitFix first reported Marvel's decision not to go with Norton.

Blasting Feige's statement as "unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory," Norton's agent Brian Swardstrom said the Oscar-nominee "was enthusiastic at the prospect of being a part of the ensemble.

Source: Press Release